Dealing with a Cannabis High: Tips for Sobering Up

We've all been there: a perfect joint, a well-timed dab, or an artisanal edible take you to a place where you suddenly realize, "I'm too high." Whether it's due to a late-kicking edible, holding a bong rip too long, or simply having a low-tolerance, the uncomfortable experience can be enough to deter even the most seasoned cannabis lover. However, cannabis is not a lethal drug, and its effects will dissipate within a day. Here are some tips on how to come back from the edge of greening out.

How Long Does It Take to Sober Up from Weed?

The duration of a cannabis high depends on factors such as consumption method, dosage, and individual variables like tolerance, age, and metabolic rate. Typically, higher potency cannabis products will result in longer-lasting highs, but not necessarily more intense ones. For most people, the "window of impairment" lasts around 4 hours. The average cannabis high can last anywhere between 30 minutes to 2 hours at its peak, with lingering effects afterward.

Symptoms of Being Too High

If you're unsure whether you've crossed the line, look for these tell-tale signs:

• Anxiety
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Panic
• Paranoia
• Confusion
• Excessive perspiration

What Happens When You Get Too High?

Even if it feels like you're dying, rest assured, you're still very much alive. The high you get from marijuana comes from THC, which binds with the CB1 receptors in our endocannabinoid systems, mostly in our brains. It is not possible to consume enough THC to die, nor does THC impact parts of the brain that could affect your breathing.

Tips on How to Sober Up from Weed Fast

1. Don't panic: Remember that most symptoms of "greening out" will dissipate within minutes to hours, with no lasting effects.
2. Try water and light snacks: Hydrate with water or juice and consider grazing on some fruits, nuts, or cheese to help feel more grounded.
3. Know your limits before consuming: Prepare for your cannabis session according to your tolerance level and avoid pushing past your comfort zone.
4. Chew black peppercorns: Many swear by this trick to combat paranoia and anxiety. Sniff or chew on a few black peppercorns for almost instantaneous relief.
5. Keep calm and rest: Find a calm, quiet place to rest and breathe deeply. If you're able to, take a nap to rejuvenate yourself.
6. Try going for a walk: A change of scenery and some fresh air can help invigorate you. Just stay close to your surroundings and bring a buddy.
7. Take a shower or bath: If you're at home, taking a shower or bath can help relax you while you wait for the effects to dissipate.
8. Distract yourself: Engage in familiar activities that give you warm, fuzzy emotions to help shift your focus away from the high.

Sobering Up from Edibles and Delta-8

Sobering up from edibles may require different methods, as the high from edibles lasts longer. Try staying calm, drinking water, and distracting yourself. You can also try eating a large meal or taking some CBD edibles to lessen the effects. Delta-8, on the other hand, is often called "diet weed" due to its less intense effects, making it harder to overdo.

Additional Ideas to Try to Come Down from a High

• Try some CBD: CBD can help counteract too much THC and alleviate anxiety.
• Squeeze a lemon: The terpene limonene, found in citrus fruit and many cannabis strains, has anxiety-reducing effects.
• Take some ibuprofen: One study found that ibuprofen can counteract some effects of THC. Take a safe dose with water and some food to help come down from your high.

If all else fails and you still feel uncomfortably high, you can always seek medical attention. Physicians have your best interest in mind and will help you come down when you're too stoned, even in states where cannabis is illegal.